On the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula lies beautiful Cancun, Mexico. Originally inhabited by the ancient Maya civilization, “Cancun” is derived from the Mayan language and is believed to mean “Nest of Snakes” or “Place of the Gold Snake.” The 1960s saw an intentional increase in promoting the area to international tourists. As a result, hotels, attractions, and a major airport were constructed and in operation by the 1980s. Visit Cancun’s renowned white-sand beaches along the Caribbean Sea and stay in the Hotel Zone, a 14-mile stretch of private resort shoreline. Discover the mysteries of the many Mayan ruins within a short distance of the city proper. To make sure you experience the best of Cancun, contact Gray Line Worldwide and plan travel today!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Cancun
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Meaning “Island of Women” in Spanish, Isla Mujeres is a serene island located approximately eight miles off the coast of Cancun. In ancient times, the island was considered sacred to the Mayan goddess of the moon, fertility, medicine, and happiness. The Mayans constructed temples and sanctuaries on the island to honor her and opened the shorelines to pilgrims seeking blessings related to fertility and childbirth. Spanish explorer Francisco Hernandez de Cordoba discovered dozens of female-shaped idols, which inspired the island’s name in the colonial era. Play on the powdery white sands of Playa Norte (North Beach) or snorkel among part of the second largest reef in the world: the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Finally, order a meal of authentic Mexican cuisine in El Centro, the island’s downtown district.
A captivating eco-park located in the Riviera Maya region of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Tankah Cenotes Adventure introduces guests to ancient Maya landscapes and cultural practices. Home to four distinct cenotes — natural depressions, often filled with water — the park allows visitors to swim in Cenote Cueva (Cave Cenote) and Cenote Pirana (Piranha Cenote) while canoeing around Cenote Naval. Believed to be sacred portals to the underworld, cenotes were considered sources of life for the Mayan civilization and served as gateways to communication with the gods. Tankah was established by the Mexican government to preserve the rich history and vital biodiversity of the region.
The Columbus Lobster Dinner Cruise is a quintessential Cancun experience that combines the allure of the Caribbean Sea with gourmet dining and a riveting ambiance. Guests travel aboard a replica of a 16th-century Spanish galleon named the Columbus, in honor of the European who ushered in an era of widespread international awareness of the American continents. A highly romantic and intimate setting, this excursion is great for all ages and parties, but particularly special for couples. The cruise takes visitors over Nichupte Lagoon while enjoying a lobster dinner, surf and turf (steak and lobster), or vegetarian dishes. An open bar offering wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages is available throughout the entire trip. Soak in the serenity of the evening as the sun sets and stargaze on your way back to shore.
During Cancun’s late 20th-century development phase, entrepreneurs wanted to curate an activity that showcased the diverse beauty of the Nichupte Lagoon and surrounding ecosystems. As a result, the Jungle Tour Adventure was born. Tourists navigate their own speed boats through the intricate waterways of mangrove forests. Different tour options also include snorkeling stops at some of the Caribbean's most pristine coral reefs and a visit to the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). Keep an eye peeled for native dolphins, manatees, and a variety of exotic bird species.
Chichén Itzá is one of the most significant and captivating archaeological sites in the world. Translating to “at the mouth of the well of the Itza,” Chichén Itzá was home to a powerful Mayan ethnic group that played a central role in founding and developing the city. Chichén Itzá served as a political, economic, and religious hub on the Yucatan Peninsula. It also evolved into a melting pot of both Mayan and Toltec cultures (as evidenced by the blend of artistic practices in the structures). Admire El Castillo, an iconic step pyramid whose shadows create an illusion of a slithering serpent during the spring and autumn equinoxes. The Great Ball Court is also a must-see for its status as the most well-preserved ancient ball court in Mesoamerica. Finally, take pictures in front of El Caracol, “the Observatory” likely used by Mayan astronomers to track celestial events.
Experience the thrill of a live pirate show while sailing through the Caribbean Sea with the Jolly Roger Pirate Ship in Cancun. Guests depart from the El Embarcadero Pier in Cancun’s storied Hotel Zone. The Jolly Roger vessel itself is a replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon and adorned with intricate woodwork, towering masts, and expansive sails. Modern amenities are also available onboard to ensure the comfort and convenience of guests. Watch a live pirate show where actors sword fight, shoot cannons, and engage in acrobatics while encouraging the audience to participate. The gourmet meal includes grilled lobster tail, steak, chicken, fish, and decadent desserts. An open bar completes the experience by offering a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
The El Rey Archaeological Zone is a significant Mayan ruin nestled in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Dating back to around 200 AD, this site was inhabited until the 16th century and was most likely a bustling coastal community within the Mayan empire. The name “El Rey” translates to “The King” and stemmed from a discovered ceremonial mask and skull. Explore over 40 remnants of temples, platforms, and residential buildings on your own time. The space is also home to a thriving population of native iguanas, which make for great photo bombers.
A unique attraction located off the coast of Cancun and Isla Mujeres, the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) is one of the largest artificial art installations in the world. Established in 2009 as a collaborative effort to protect the region’s natural coral reefs, the museum was intended to divert visitors from focusing overtly on endangered sections while also promoting new coral growth on the specialized material used for the sculptures. The installation of 100 life-sized pieces eventually expanded to over 500 sculptures created by an array of artists. Certified divers can explore the sculptures up close and personal while snorkeling tours offer a more accessible option for viewing the vibrant environment. Specific pieces include a Volkswagen Beetle and 450 life-sized human figures.
The Mayan Museum of Cancun is a premier cultural destination located in the heart of the Hotel Zone. The museum was developed by Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) to preserve the rich heritage of the Mayan civilization. It also serves as a dedicated space for the extensive archaeological findings uncovered in the Yucatan Peninsula and surrounding regions. The museum’s building is strategically situated on the site of the San Miguelito settlement that thrived between the 13th and 16th centuries and includes indoor and outdoor exhibits for curious visitors. Artifacts include sculptures, ceramics, pottery, jewelry, and human remains. Register for a guided tour to get even more insight into this remarkable culture.
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